Travel Safety in the Caribbean.

When we plan that dream vacation to the Caribbean or any other trip no one expects the worst to happen. Usually, everything goes just fine and we have the time of our life and then some. But sometimes things can and do go wrong. Instead of panicing a traveler needs to know what to do. So, I have scoured the internet for some tips to help the beleagured traveler.

1. Have a check up from your medical professional 4 to 6 weeks before departure. They can make sure your immunizations are up to date. Also, if you need any immunizations or malaria shots get them early enough for them to be effective.
2. Protect yourself from insects. Use a product containing 20-30% DEET insect repellent.
3. Never go barefoot, even on the beach. There may be hidden glass and sharp coral. If you do get cut watch for infection.
4. Consume only well cooked food. Eat only fruits and vegetables you can peel.
5. Swim only in well chlorinated pools and salt water. Avoid freshwater such as rivers, lakes, ponds, and streams.
6. Pack a basic first-aid kit. Include Tylenol or ibuprophen for pain, Neosporin for minor skin wounds, Benadryl for allergies, and Immodium AD for diarrhea. You may want to ask your medical professional to prescribe an antibiotic appropriate for the country you are traveling to.
7. Adults and children should learn to swim in the surf which is different from swimming in calm water.
8. Check local weather, in the Caribbean, tropical depressions, tropical storms, and hurricanes can greatly up the hazards of being in the sea. Even if the island you are visiting doesn't take a direct hit.
9. Be aware of  sea life. Aquatic plants and animals can be hazardous. Leave animals and plants alone. Coral can cause serious cuts and and species like the jellyfish can inflict painful stings.
10. If you are caught in a rip tide, remain calm. Do not fight the current but swim parallel to the shoreline. If you find yourself losing energy and cannot get back to the shore, tread water, and wave your arms and yell for help.
11. Do not take an independent tour of a strange country without asking your concierge. He or she can steer you away from the bad areas of the islands.
12. A good local guide can buffer you from troubled areas, but can also buffer you from pan handlers, pushy street vendors, potiental con artists, and other sketchy characters.
13. Be careful at street parties, dance clubs, bars, or anywhere locals and tourists mix. Alcohol use lowers your inhabitions and raises your risks for things such as pickpockets, physical assault, and sexual violence. Mixing with the locals can be a great experience but don't do it alone and be cautious.
14. If your passport is lost or stolen contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the country you are visiting.
15. Last but not least, be sure to purchase the appropriate travel insurance to cover your trip before you leave home.

I hope that if you chose to travel to the Caribbean now or in the future, that you have a happy and safe trip. Just use a bit of common sense and be cautious and your trip will be the trip of a lifetime!